A Guide to Caring for Your Veneers 

Got a new set of veneers and are not sure how to best care for them? With the right care, veneers can last up to 15 years or even a bit longer, so it is crucial to know all the tips that will allow you to enjoy a long-lasting beautiful smile. 

You've come to the right place. Below you can find a thorough guide that will tell you everything you need to know about how to care for your veneers. 

Good Daily Oral Hygiene Is a Must 

One of the first things you need to understand about veneers is that while the materials they are made of can't get cavities, the teeth underneath and the soft tissue around them can decay. So a proper oral hygiene routine is paramount for ensuring the integrity of your veneers. By that we mean: 

• Use a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth at least twice a day.
• Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between teeth.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill bacteria and keep your mouth fresh.

Pay More Attention to Your Diet and Nutrition

While veneers are strong, certain foods and beverages can wear them down or even damage them if you are not careful enough. For example, mindlessly eating some popcorn while watching a movie can lead to a chipped veneer. 

As a good rule of thumb, you should try to:

• Avoid staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and such. 
• Limit the consumption of sugary foods as too much sugar can lead to decay, which can undermine the structure supporting your veneers.
• Avoid or be mindful when eating hard foods like nuts, hard candies, or even chewy foods like taffies or a good steak. 

Go to Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental check-ups have a double role. First, the dentist will inspect the condition of your veneers and oral health. If they notice anything wrong, they will recommend the right course of action to address the issue in its early stages. For example, if they notice some demineralization on one of your teeth, they will recommend a fluoride treatment together with thorough at-home care to prevent a cavity from forming. 

Secondly, the dentist will also professionally clean your teeth and remove any plaque and tartar buildup. This will give your smile health shine. 

Protect Your Veneers 

Your veneers will be exposed to the same forces as your natural teeth but they may need a bit more protection, such as: 

• Wear a custom-made night guard if you grind your teeth at night. Always wear a mouthguard when playing spots.
• Avoid using your teeth to open packages or cut things.
• When drinking staining liquids, using a straw can help reduce the risk of discoloration. 

Interested in Veneers in Wilmington, Porters Neck

Then stop by Thrive Family Dental for an honest chat with Dr. Ben Friberg about the best ways to revamp your smile. 

You can easily get in touch with us online to book your appointment.